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Tomorrow is the  and the theme this year is focused on Target C of the Sendai Framework, reducing disaster economic losses in relation to global GDP by 2030.

, this is clearly a serious issue that requires considerable global action and focus, particularly as the scale of these losses is predicted to increase over time due to climate change and its exacerbating effects on the severity and frequency of some events. 

Whilst these losses have serious ramifications and impacts on the localised area and community, some groups within the affected community are more impacted than others.

Those of you who have read my posts before will know that my organisation, DRR Dynamics, has a specific focus on those groups who are traditionally marginalised in a disaster or humanitarian crisis (women and girls, older people, those with disabilities, ethnic minorities and LGBT+ groups). The economic impact of a disaster on these groups can often impact more severely than the average survivor.

The reasons for this are many:

Employment

These groups are often employed either in a less secure, lower paid position within the so-called ‘formal economy’ (zero-hour contracts, pay taxes etc) or often within the ‘informal economy’ (cash in hand, casual basis). , caused by either borrowing money for food, housing or falling behind on housing payments and bills.

Non-economic roles forcing suspension of economic activity

There is also growing evidence that suggests disasters can lead to the . This is caused by the temporary suspension of normal economic activities and instead, a focus around tending for injured family or rebuilding & rehousing.

Lack of aid & response

A number of groups will often be overlooked or excluded from the response of governments and aid agencies due to their own personal situation. , particularly within those who are less-able bodied or suffer from mental health issues.

Lack of recognition of family structure

Economic recovery often depends on the involvement of external sources providing financial assistance. In some cases, however, this isn’t provided due to the lack of recognition of the family unit applying for that aid. , especially in countries or regions whether LGBT+ groups are marginalised more generally. 

Lack of economic mobility

In the aftermath of a disaster, many leave the area impacted and search for economic opportunities elsewhere. But for some within the community, this is not an option. , are often unable to move to different towns or countries and as such, are often left within areas with a dwindling economic output. 

A way forward?

The inclusion of these groups within disaster and climate change related policy development is vital to ensure these types of issues and hurdles are recognised before an event occurs. This preparedness and recognition will not only help with the speed in which these groups are able to recover but also mean a more inclusive process across the many aspects of disaster risk reduction and recovery.